- Colorado State University Libraries
- Research Guides
- NR567 - Analysis of Environmental Impact
- Evaluating, Organizing & Citing
NR567 - Analysis of Environmental Impact
Evaluating Sources
Only you can decide whether an information source is appropriate to use for a particular purpose. However, there are a number of factors you can consider when assessing an information source. One way to remember them is called the CRAAP test.
Does your source pass the CRAAP test?
- Currency
- Relevance
- Authority
- Accuracy
- Purpose
Read this PDF handout from the Meriam Library at California State University Chico, or view the video from Western Libraries (below) for more information.
Video by Western Libraries. CC BY-NC-ND 3.0
Organizing Your Sources
When you are doing literature research, it is important to keep a record of where and how you searched for information, as well as what you found. Keeping a research log will save you from repeating searches and will result in a more efficient research process.
Citation management software allows users to organize and store information about sources that are found during literature research. References can then be easily inserted into written works and formatted in many different citation styles. A few popular options are listed below with links for more information.
- EndNote / EndNote BasicUse the free web version or purchase the software. CSU Libraries offers classes and support.
- ZoteroA free, browser-based tool.
- MendeleyAlso free, aimed toward the sciences, and has social media components.
- Compare the ToolsA comprehensive comparison of various citation management tools from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.
Citing Your Sources
Online APA Citation Help
- CSU Writing Center - APA StyleGuidance on APA citations from the CSU Writing Center.
- Purdue Online Writing Lab - APA StyleReliable guide to APA citations from Purdue University.
Official APA Style Manual
Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 7th editionAvailable in print at CSU's Morgan Library. Use for in-depth questions.
Using Sources in Your Work
- Purdue OWL: Quoting, Paraphrasing, and SummarizingBrief explanation and guidance on the different ways to incorporate sources into your work. From Purdue University's Online Writing Lab.
- Writer's Handbook: Quoting and ParaphrasingIn-depth discussion and examples of "how to properly integrate information from published sources into your own writing" from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Writing Center.
Writing Help
- CSU Writing CenterThe CSU Writing Center provides help to members of the CSU community during any phase of writing. In person or online services are available, and drop-ins are welcome.
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